A MAN has been charged after reports of drunkenness and violence in side a York restaurant - while it was closed.

Police were called to Bella Italia in Low Petergate between 8am and 8.50am on Monday.

A 43-year-old has been charged with theft of a bottle of alcohol from the premises, being drunk and disorderly in a public place, and assaulting a police constable in the execution of his duty, said North Yorkshire Police. 

He is due at York Magistrates Court on December 22.

The Press has been told the man was in the building legitimately to do some work.

York Press:

A North Yorkshire Police spokesman said: "Four members of the public assisted him to detain the man shortly before back-up arrived at the scene."

Sergeant James Duffy, of the York West Response Team, said: “I want to pass on our thanks to the members of the public who bravely helped the arresting officer in a difficult situation.

“We truly value the support from the local community and we were very grateful for their direct assistance on this occasion.”